Impact of Lockdown due to Covid-19 on the Lifestyle Changes of Employees in India: A Cross-sectional Analysis of Personnel Who Work at Office Versus Work from Home

Abstract

The nationwide lockdown implemented due to COVID-19 drastically affected the working pattern of people. Only limited staff were allowed to Work At Office (WAO) while the rest were asked to Work From Home (WFH). Employees of both the categories faced challenges due to restricted movements and safety policies. The study was planned to assess and compare the lifestyle changes of WAO and WFH employees during the lockdown. An online cross-sectional study was designed which included employees of both Government and private sectors. Electronic Data Capture method was used to collect the data after obtaining their online consent and/assent forms by circulating a web-page developed using Research Electronic Data Capture software system. Multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that the employees of WFH were at a higher risk than WAO with respect to their food intake and eating patterns. Our analysis indicated that the risk of weight gain was higher (OR: 1.51, P < 0.005) in WFH group besides, a significant (P<0.005) increase in time spent on mobile by the WFH. An increase in the intake of fruits and vegetables was observed in both the groups. The study highlights the need for awareness on timely eating habits and minimal use of gadgets while working from home. Encouraging periodic rotation of the staff will facilitate a balanced lifestyle among working personnel. Fitness programmes may be made for the WFH staffs, especially to the younger employees to avoid the risk of obesity.